Subaru Outback Expert Review

Pros

Cons

Underpowered four-cylinder engine

HID headlights exclusive to six-cylinder models

CVT fake shifts feel odd

The redesigned 2015 Subaru Outback is now more efficient and offers a new version of the EyeSight active safety system. The crossover wagon is ready for off-road action, with a new Torque Vectoring system and X-Mode for the all-wheel-drive system.

The all-wheel-drive 2015 Subaru Outback is a two-row crossover sold in three grades. The XV Crosstrek and Forester are priced below the Outback, which is currently Subaru's biggest SUV.

Two engines are available in the 2015 Subaru Outback: a 2.5-liter F-4 with 175 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque or a 3.6-liter F-6 making 256 hp and 247 lb-ft. Both engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which gives the crossover significantly better fuel economy with four-cylinder variants rated at 25/33 mpg city/highway and six-cylinder variants at 20/27 mpg.

Off-road capability is one of the 2015 Outback's strong suits thanks to its high ground clearance and excellent all-wheel-drive system. This doesn't come at the cost of on-road driving dynamics as the crossover remains solid on pavement. Acceleration is good on Outback's with the F-6 while those equipped with the F-4 operate at a more leisurely pace. The CVT paired with either engine is one of the better units in the market, providing a "smooth driving experience." At wide-open throttle, however, the CVT mimics a traditional six-speed automatic, and "the fake shifts and surges feel odd," indicating its lack of refinement compared to units found in other vehicles such as the one in the 2015 Honda CR-V.
Interior build quality is an improvement over the previous generation Outback with high-grade materials used in the cabin particularly in the Limited trim. The infotainment system is also much better with user-friendly controls and a touchscreen with pinch-and-pull zoom function. Space inside the crossover is generous for four passengers and cargo with up to 77.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.

Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver assistance technologies is available on all trim levels except the base 2.5i and includes safety aids such as lane departure and sway warning, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision braking. The 2015 Subaru Outback has a five-star overall safety score from the NHTSA (out of a possible five stars), and is a recipient of the IIHS' Top Safety Pick+ award for 2015, earning a Good rating in four categories (Good is the highest possible score) and offering Superior frontal crash prevention (front crash prevention awards include Basic, Advanced Superior).

As a family car with all-weather and off-road capability, the 2015 Subaru Outback is an excellent choice with its high ground clearance, spacious interior and superb all-wheel-drive system. Its off-road capabilities don't come at the cost of on-road handling since the crossover remains well composed on pavement. In a First Drive review, we said that the 2015 Outback is a solid performer "in cities, on winding roads, and on highways." The crossover's spacious interior is also a strong suit with generous room for cargo and passengers, making it an extremely practical choice for families.